Brandon Lyon, Fernando Rodney decline arbitration from Tigers

INDIANAPOLIS -- Detroit Tigers free agent relievers Fernando Rodney and Brandon Lyon both declined arbitration, which had been offered by the club.

That doesn't mean they can't still sign with Detroit, but does mean that they are not bound to the Tigers. And, as Type B free agents, Detroit will get a sandwich pick between the first and second rounds of the June amateur draft if either signs elsewhere.

Dombrowski said the arbitration decisions of players will impact today’s trade discussions.

“Tomorrow will bring a different tone in conversations,” he said Monday.

The Philadelphia Phillies, according to Fox Sports.com, like Lyon but are not willing to meet his contract demands. The Phillies also have a reported interest in Rodney.